Benjamin Hall, Author at Cactus three

The last-ever penny will be minted today in Philadelphia

08

Nov

Investments and Business

Philadelphia’s Last Penny: A Historic Minting

After more than two centuries, the American penny will be retired, closing a 238-year chapter in the nation’s monetary history. The final coin is set to be minted today at the US Mint in Philadelphia, marking the end of an era.The final minting and reasons for retirementThe final penny will be manufactured under the guidance of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Treasurer Brandon Beach, in accordance with President Donald Trump's earlier directive this year to cease its creation. This choice is driven by the escalating production cost of the coin—approaching four cents per unit—rendering its creation more costly than its…

Trump floats ,000 tariff rebate checks. What you need to know

08

Nov

By Benjamin Hall

Investments and Business

Trump’s Proposed $2,000 Tariff Rebate Checks: Your Guide

President Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating the distribution of $2,000 tariff refund checks to American citizens as a strategy to mitigate escalating expenses, a proposal that has garnered considerable interest and examination.The idea of sending $2,000 rebate checks comes amid ongoing inflationary pressures that continue to strain household budgets across the United States. Trump’s administration has framed the measure as a response to higher prices for everyday goods, which have been partly attributed to tariffs on imported items. The checks would aim to provide immediate financial relief, helping families cover the increased cost of groceries, electronics, and other consumer products.White…

A plan written by Trump’s NASA pick was leaked. Here’s what to know about ‘Project Athena’

08

Nov

By Benjamin Hall

Science and Technology

Trump’s NASA Pick’s Leaked Plan: All About ‘Project Athena’

NASA could be on the verge of a significant overhaul as billionaire Jared Isaacman, President Donald Trump's contentious choice for administrator, presents an ambitious blueprint for the organization.Project Athena: an ambitious roadmapIsaacman, whose nomination to head NASA has been a recurring event, having been put forward, then retracted, and subsequently re-proposed, has released a 62-page report named Project Athena outlining his vision for the agency. Although certain parts are now deemed obsolete, the blueprint indicates extensive transformations, ranging from internal restructuring to bold objectives for deep-space missions. Isaacman has stressed that this document was conceived as an initial framework, designed…

A seismic shift in computing is on the horizon (and it’s not AI)

08

Nov

By Benjamin Hall

International

A seismic shift in computing is on the horizon (and it’s not AI)

The realm of computation is poised for a profound shift, potentially overshadowing the current enthusiasm surrounding AI. Novel technological advancements are set to reshape our methods of information processing, data retention, and human-machine interaction.Beyond AI: The Next Frontier in ComputingWhile artificial intelligence has captured significant attention and funding in recent years, specialists caution that the subsequent major transformation in computing could emerge from entirely distinct breakthroughs. Quantum computing, neuromorphic processors, and cutting-edge photonics are some of the technologies positioned to profoundly reshape the realm of information technology. These developments offer not only enhanced processing capabilities but also fundamentally novel approaches…

What social stigmas affect mental health?

08

Nov

By Benjamin Hall

Health

Exploring the Social Stigmas Surrounding Mental Illness

Mental health remains one of the most misunderstood facets of human well-being, largely due to persistent social stigmas. Stigma, in this context, refers to the negative stereotypes, labels, or discrimination directed at individuals who experience mental health conditions. These stigmas are not just personal opinions; they are deeply embedded in societal attitudes, cultural norms, and even institutional policies, leading to far-reaching consequences.Types of Social Stigma Affecting Mental HealthPublic Stigma refers to the general population's negative attitudes toward people with mental illness. This manifests through derogatory language, social exclusion, and the propagation of myths that depict affected individuals as violent, unreliable,…

07

Nov

By Benjamin Hall

Science and Technology

The History of Cells: Robert Hooke’s Role

The 17th-century scientific revolution brought about significant advancements in comprehending the natural world, with Robert Hooke standing out as a key figure. This English polymath's sharp observational abilities and groundbreaking experiments revolutionized biology, particularly through his discovery of cells. His detailed efforts established the groundwork for subsequent progress in microbiology and cellular biology—a heritage that endures even today.Robert Hooke and the Development of the Compound MicroscopeRobert Hooke was more than just a scientist; he was also an inventor and architect, renowned for improving scientific tools. In the 1660s, he perfected the compound microscope, an instrument featuring several lenses designed to…